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49
August 2020
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Solar Stik
®
Inc.
PSS-G/RAID Alternative Energy System Deployment Guide
The PAMs must be properly secured to the ground even in low-wind environments. The methods
used for ground securing are determined by two factors:
•
The type of terrain upon which the PAMs are to be operated—“Hard” surface (such as pavement)
or “soft” surface (such as dirt or sand)
•
Environmental conditions—Wind conditions the PAMs might encounter
Hard (Impenetrable Surface)
The PAMs should be secured with sandbags.
On hard surfaces, sandbags may be the
only way to secure the PAMs. Regardless
of the surface, twelve (12) sandbags should
be used to prevent damage in high winds
whether or not the metal stakes are used.
Sandbags should weigh a minimum of 50
pounds each.
To secure with sandbags, one (1) sandbag is
placed on each of the four (4) sandbag straps
in the front, under the location where the
solar panels attach, and two (2) sandbags
are placed on each of the four (4) sandbag
straps in the rear.
Soft (Penetrable Surface)
The tent stakes provide additional
ground-securing stability when the
panels are on soft ground.
Note: The stakes should not be used
as the sole source of ground securing
Place the stakes through the loops at the
end of each batten and drive them into
the ground with a hammer.
Note:
Make sure the loops are securely
fastened around the stake and under the
loop catch of the stake on both sides.
Drive the stakes deep enough into the
ground so that the lower edges of the
loop catch are buried slightly, but do
not drive the top of the stake below the
surface, as this will make removal of the
stakes very difficult.
10 Secure the PV Arrays to the Ground
WARNING
Failure to properly secure the PAMs to the surface with sandbags could result in solar
panel damage, injury, or death in high winds. Tent stakes also should be used in addition
to sandbags when possible. Wind damage to panels can render them nonfunctional or
significantly reduce their functional life expectancy.
